Bristol City have been handed a boost in their pursuit of Marley Watkins and Josh Scowen. Barnsley have announced that the two midfielders - who are out of contract this summer - will 'explore other options'.

The Robins are sure to be in the mix for the pair with Lee Johnson recently admitting his admiration for Watkins in particular following the 3-2 home win over Paul Heckingbottom's side in April.

Johnson also knows the pair following his year managing Barnsley from February 2015 to February 2016.

Marley Watkins.

Watkins, 26, offers power and pace and goal-scoring ability from the wing, but can also be used as a second striker. The 6ft1 attacker has scored 10 league goals this season and assisted seven, meaning that he was involved in a goal every other game after making 34 appearances.

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Watkins also has links with the south west having had a spell at Bath City earlier in his career.

Scowen (24), meanwhile, has impressed at the base of Barnsley's midfield, breaking up opposition attacks and neatly supplying the Tykes' forward players with the ball.

Josh Scowen, right.

Both players would fit in with Bristol City's avowed philosohpy of developing younger players or targeting cost-effective signings, with both players free to leave Barnsley at the end of their deals this summer.

While the duo may yet re-new terms with Barnsley there is sure to be great competition for the services of both. Leeds, Ipswich and Cardiff have been linked with the two as well.

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Bristol City football writer Gregor MacGregor said: "Both players impressed in the 3-2 win at Ashton Gate recently. Watkins bullied Joe Bryan at times and was a constant threat. But for some wayward shooting from distance, he could have really affected the result.

"Scowen is a neat footballer too, and used the ball intelligently in the middle of the pitch, as well as getting a foot in when needed. The pair will undoubtedly be a great pick-up for whoever wins their signatures."